The Drink: Sangria blanca
There were several inspirations for this cocktail. Friends Jason and Amy recently introduced us to frozen grapes – a delightful and refreshing snack for the dogs days of summer. I knew immediately after trying those frozen nuggets that I would put them in a Sangria. Not only did I love the sweetness, I loved that they could be used as flavored ice cubes for a cocktail.
Then, my high school friend, Emily, emailed asking for a drink recommendation to serve adults at her one year old’s birthday barbeque. She said she would like to serve wine, or maybe champagne. Bingo.
I’ve been playing with variations of white wine sprizters all summer long, but surprisingly, I’ve never made Sangria. Sangria, a popular “wine punch” from Spain and Portugal, offers a lot of versatility. You can adjust for your own taste and use a variety of fruit, depending on what’s in season. Knowing that my farmers markets has the most incredible peaches and nectarines right now, they were given in this cocktail. 
The Ingredients/Recipe:
This version of Sangria blanca is a Shoes & Cocktails exclusive!
(Recipe is for two bottles of wine)
- Prepare night before – frozen grapes (freeze 2 large handfuls of seedless, white grapes)
- Prepare at least 3 hours in advance (can be up to 24 hours in advance) – slice 2 peaches and/or nectarines in wedges
- Slice 1 lemon in whole slices, then quarter
- Place peaches and lemons in pitcher or carafe, add 2 bottles of white wine (preferably a Spanish white or another dry white wine)
- Refrigerate for several hours, to allow time for the fruit flavors to blend with wine
- Add frozen grapes to carafe, and stir
- Add raspberries, and any remaining grapes, to individual glasses
- Pour white wine and top with seltzer water (note: it can be very tricky to pour and get an adequate mixture of fruit in each glass; recommend that you pour the wine first and then spoon in fruit mixture)
The Occasion:
Attention supper club friends! I am totally making this sangria for the next dinner party. Let’s hold it soon, while peaches are in their prime.
Whether you are planning your one year old’s birthday party, supper club, or you need to use the left-overs from your trip to the farmers market, look no further than Sangria blanca. This cocktail is light, refreshing, and quite a show-stopper. Which is why I plan on pairing it with these striking paisley print pumps.
The Shoes: My Paisley Peep-toe Pumps
I’ve had these Nine West pumps for almost three years, and I continue to get compliments. Strangers literally stop me on the street. The peep-toe pump is a tried and true design. And though I haven’t highlighted them yet, Nine West, continues to be my go-to brand for everyday shoes. They are affordable, decently well-made, and there’s always a good selection. The hint of raspberry goes perfectly with the Sangria, no?
posted by Ms. S&C
Shoes & Cocktails 
Cava Sangria is a wonderful drink. First had it in Spain and it should be served at more places. If only Virginia would change thier laws about Sangria. Makes no sense.
Yes, the VA law banning sangria made with brandy is a bit antiquated–and ridiculous. You can read more about it here:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/23/AR2008012303400.html
I didn’t include brandy or liquor in this recipe (though I was tempted by apple brandy), because I wanted to keep it light. S&C will likely make a cooler-weather-version with more of the traditional ingredients this fall. Stay tuned.
And, Cava Sangria sounds absolutely fetching. Thanks for sharing!
Law is changed! Effective July 1 ’08. Megan and I enjoyed a lovely sangria at La Tasca last month. They have like 10 different flavors. It is about time.
This is my favorite drink thus far. Well favorite drink that I still need to make. And I’m on my way to get grapes to throw in the freezer right now! Excellent idea J & A. Thanks for passsing it along.
I too love frozen grapes and never thought of adding to a cocktail! I hope Jason and Amy also learned about them from the Oprah episode that went into Ty’s (home makeover’s) fridge and freezer… I hope so. Another great idea!